Canada is known for its politeness, maple syrup, and breathtaking landscapes but hidden beneath the charm are some laws that will leave you scratching your head.
From banning certain kinds of coin payments to rules about how loud you can swear in public, Canada has its fair share of quirky legislation.
Whether these laws were born out of necessity or just odd historical moments, they’re guaranteed to surprise (and amuse) you.
So before you plan your next trip up north or brush up on your Canadian trivia, check out these 15 weird Canadian laws that are almost too bizarre to believe!
1: No Pet Rats
Alberta’s strict law prohibits pet rats, making it unique in the world. Introduced in 1950, this regulation aims to protect agriculture and prevent disease spread.
Owners can face fines for possessing rats, as they are classified as pests. Alberta invests over $500,000 annually in rat control efforts to maintain this rodent-free status.
So, anyone moving to Alberta should leave their furry friends behind unless they want to risk hefty penalties.
2: No Pretending To Be a Witch
The Criminal Code of Canada states that pretending to practice witchcraft for fraud is illegal. Individuals caught claiming to use witchcraft, sorcery, or enchantment can face penalties.
This law, stemming from historical British rulings, aims to protect citizens from scams. Though actual witchcraft is lawful, deceitful impersonation isn’t.
In 2018, lawmakers repealed related sections of the code, making Halloween celebrations more enjoyable for everyone.
3: No Trick-or-Treating After 16
New Brunswick made headlines when it passed a law preventing anyone aged 16 or older from trick-or-treating. The reasoning behind this unique law lies in maintaining the spirit of Halloween for younger children.
Offenders can be fined up to $200 for attempting to collect candy after reaching the upper age limit. The 2017 law updates a previous regulation that banned trick-or-treating for those over 14, skirting the line between festive fun and age-appropriate behavior.
4: Don’t Scare the King
It’s illegal to act with the intent to alarm His Majesty in Canada, as specified in Section 49 of the Criminal Code. Offenders could face up to 14 years in prison for making inappropriate comments or practical jokes in the presence of the King.
Keeping a respectful demeanor is essential, ensuring that interactions remain civil and appropriate. This bizarre law highlights Canada’s emphasis on decorum, even in humorous contexts.
5: Keep Dog Sleds Off Sidewalks
In Hay River, Northwest Territories, it’s illegal to use dog sleds on sidewalks. This law protects pedestrians from potential accidents caused by speeding sleds.
To ensure safety, residents must stick to designated sledding trails. Dog sledding, a popular winter activity in the region, aligns with local culture, yet safety on public walkways is a priority. Heeding this law helps maintain smooth interactions between dog sledders and the community.
6: Don’t Wear Your Snake in Public
Fredericton, New Brunswick, has a unique law banning snakes and other reptiles in public spaces. This regulation aims to prevent any potential disturbances and safety concerns for pedestrians.
It originated after a boa constrictor incident that raised alarm in 2015 when an escaped snake roamed the streets.
Anyone caught flaunting their pet snakes outside can face penalties, reinforcing community safety and comfort.
7: Tree Climbing Prohibited
Some places in Canada have laws explicitly forbidding tree climbing. In certain municipalities, this law aims to protect trees from damage and maintain public safety.
Offenders can face fines, emphasizing the importance of preserving local flora and promoting responsible recreation.
While it may seem odd, these regulations highlight the unique measures taken to balance nature conservation and community activities.
8: No Painting Wooden Ladders
It’s illegal to paint wooden ladders in Nova Scotia and Alberta, a rule aimed at ensuring safety. The regulation prevents paint from obscuring structural weaknesses, helping users assess the ladder’s condition.
It highlights that ladders account for approximately 14% of workplace fall injuries in Canada, prompting authorities to prioritize functionality over aesthetics in safety equipment. Ignoring this rule could lead to fines, emphasizing safety’s importance in everyday activities.
9: Don’t Swear in the Park
Swearing in public parks can land you in hot water, especially in Quebec. Local laws prohibit using profanity, reflecting the province’s commitment to preserving its linguistic and cultural values.
Offenders could face fines aimed at maintaining a family-friendly environment. When visiting parks in Quebec, it’s wise to keep the language clean to avoid offending locals and possibly getting penalized.
10: No T-Shirts for Taxi Drivers
Taxi drivers in Halifax face strict dress code regulations, which prohibit wearing t-shirts. Every driver must don a collared shirt and trousers that meet specific length requirements.
This law aims to maintain a professional appearance, reflecting Halifax’s dedication to public service quality.
While some might find this excessive, it’s meant to ensure drivers present themselves appropriately, enhancing the overall image of the city’s taxi services.
11: No Waterskiing After Sunset
In Ontario and other provinces, waterskiing is prohibited from one hour after sunset to one hour before sunrise. The law exists to prevent accidents due to low visibility on the water.
Waterskiing at night can be incredibly dangerous, not only for the skier but also for boaters who may not see them in time.
Law enforcement actively patrols popular lakes and rivers to ensure compliance, and violators can face hefty fines. Stick to daylight hours for your aquatic adventures to stay safe and legal.
12: No Publishing or Selling Crime Comics
Legislators enacted restrictions on crime comics in the late 1940s to address public concerns about their influence.
They aimed to regulate the comic book industry after a tragic incident involving young readers and violent behavior.
This law effectively prohibits the publication and sale of crime-related comic books, highlighting ongoing debates about media’s impact on society.
Publishers must navigate these stringent regulations, shaping the landscape of comic book content in Canada today.
13: Don’t Use Too Many Coins to Make Purchases
It’s illegal in Canada to use too many coins for a single transaction. If a person tries to pay with more than 25 coins, the seller isn’t obligated to accept the payment.
This law, rooted in the Canadian Currency Act, aims to simplify transactions and reduce coin hoarding. Whenever you’re shopping, it’s best to keep your change minimal and reserve those extra coins for smaller purchases.
14: No Sledding
In Toronto, sledding in city parks is banned, enforcing public safety in winter recreational areas. Legislators aimed to prevent injuries from tobogganing accidents by restricting sledders.
While sledding hills draw crowds, the lack of safety measures led to this unusual law. Despite the ban, many locals find ways to enjoy winter sports, highlighting the ongoing debate on balancing fun and safety in urban settings.
15: Don’t Make Fun of Christianity
In Canada, it’s illegal to publish blasphemous libel, meaning making fun of Christianity can lead to legal trouble. This law, once carrying a penalty of up to two years in jail, highlights the historical respect for religion within the country.
The last prosecution under this law occurred in 1935, showcasing its rarity in modern times, yet it still remains on the books.
Offenders can theoretically face penalties for mocking religious beliefs, underscoring Canada’s complex relationship with freedom of speech and respect for faith.
Alicia Richards